In celebration of Women’s History Month, Mayor Todd Gloria named Katy McDonald, executive director of Forever Balboa Park, as this year’s citywide “Woman of Distinction.” McDonald and nine other women, nominated by their City Councilmembers, were honored during Tuesday’s City Council meeting for their leadership, accomplishments and service to San Diego. 

With more than 30 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, McDonald has made significant contributions to the arts, urban development, and community engagement.  

“As president and CEO of Forever Balboa Park, Katy is committed to preserving and enhancing San Diego’s crown jewel’s beauty and cultural vitality. Her instrumental role in the creation of The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, along with her leadership positions at the San Diego Symphony Orchestra and Museum of Modern Art, showcase her tireless efforts to enrich San Diego’s cultural institutions,” Mayor Todd Gloria said. “Katy’s deep roots in the community, combined with her expertise and passion, make her a remarkably effective advocate for the city’s growth and cultural heritage, earning her this well-deserved recognition. I congratulate and thank Katy and all the honorees.” 

The “Women of Distinction” ceremony was initiated by Mayor Gloria four years ago to recognize exceptional women in San Diego and to thank them for what they do to make the City a better place for all of us.

The 2025 Women of Distinction  

Katy McDonald (Citywide Honoree): Katy McDonald brings more than 30 years of nonprofit leadership to her role as president and CEO of Forever Balboa Park. With a rich background in the arts, urban development, and community engagement, Katy previously served as chief of staff at the San Diego Symphony Orchestra, where she played a key role in the creation of The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park. She also served as deputy director of external affairs at the San Diego Museum of Art and held leadership positions at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. A Colorado College graduate with an MBA from the University of San Diego, Katy is deeply dedicated to preserving and enhancing the cultural vitality of Balboa Park and the broader San Diego community. 

Cori Austin (Honoree of Council President Joe LaCava, District 1): Cori Austin, CEO of the Center for Community Solutions (CCS), has dedicated more than 20 years to ending relationship and sexual violence. Under her leadership, CCS provides vital services, including a 24/7 crisis hotline, emergency shelter, counseling, and violence-prevention programs. Cori is an active advocate for trauma-informed practices and social justice, having served on multiple boards and committees focused on family homelessness, child abuse prevention, and domestic violence. 

Shelly Parks (Honoree of Councilmember Jennifer Campbell, District 2): Shelly Parks, president of the Ocean Beach Community Foundation, is deeply committed to community work. A licensed clinical social worker with more than two decades of experience in the nonprofit sector, Shelly’s professional background includes leadership roles in Jewish Family Service of San Diego and the San Diego Food Bank. She also currently works as the basic-needs coordinator at Miramar College, expanding essential programs for students and the community. 

Sharon Gehl (Honoree of Councilmember Stephen Whitburn, District 3): Sharon Gehl has spent more than 25 years advocating for housing and community development in San Diego. She holds a master’s degree in public administration and architecture and has served on numerous local boards, including the Mission Hills Town Council and Hillcrest Community Development Corporation. Sharon’s research on housing in San Diego and work on advocacy groups like Rise Uptown continue to drive her passion for creating more affordable housing and improving local neighborhoods. 

Emilia Castillo (Honoree of Councilmember Henry Foster, District 4): Emilia Castillo is a passionate community organizer in southeastern San Diego. A mother and activist, Emilia has been dedicated to supporting education and organizing local events, such as the “Platicando con Mi Gente” National Night Out. Through her work as a parent organizer, she has advocated for parent engagement in schools and led workshops to empower families in her community. 

Khara Mangiduyos (Honoree of Councilmember Marni Von Wilpert, District 5): Khara Mangiduyos is the owner of Kalei’s Kitchenette, a Hawaiian fusion restaurant in Rancho Peñasquitos. Since opening the restaurant in 2023, Khara has made an impact by hosting community fundraisers and cultural events and partnering with local organizations like the San Diego Police Department and Toys for Tots. She is dedicated to using her business to bring people together and support local causes while fostering the spirit of aloha in San Diego. 

Sgt. Maj. Rosalia Scifo USMC, Retired (Honoree of Council President pro Tem Kent Lee, District 6): Sgt. Maj. Rosalia Scifo served in the United States Marine Corps for more than 30 years. Throughout her military career, she held a variety of leadership positions, including drill instructor and company first sergeant. She earned numerous awards, including the Legion of Merit and the Meritorious Service Medal. Rosalia’s leadership and service continue to inspire others as she advocates for military veterans and their families. 

Haydee Jezabel Ramirez (Honoree of Councilmember Raul Campillo, District 7) Haydee Ramirez has more than 15 years of experience in nonprofit work, particularly serving military families. As director of programs at Armed Services YMCA San Diego, she has led initiatives to expand child care and youth services for military families. Haydee is deeply committed to enhancing the quality of life for military personnel and their families through programs that foster community and resilience. 

Claudia Zavalza Hough-Snee (Honoree of Councilmember Vivian Moreno, District 8): Claudia Zavalza Hough-Snee is a passionate advocate for underserved populations in South San Diego. As a longtime volunteer and grassroots organizer, Claudia supports immigrant and unhoused communities and is actively involved in legal advocacy and humanitarian efforts. She is a devoted mother and community leader, committed to resource redistribution and public education. 

Monica Hill (Honoree of Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera, District 9): Monica Hill has been a strong advocate for the residents of the Village Green Apartments, particularly following the devastating floods in January 2022, when she played a crucial role in organizing donations and supporting recovery efforts. Monica continues to work for the well-being of her community, advocating for clean and safe living conditions for her neighbors.